Seattle Fusion Week 2024

Lisa Stiffler, Journalist, GeekWire

Lisa Stiffler covers nonprofits, companies and researchers who are applying technology to environmental, energy, health, transit, education and other societal challenges.

Lisa is from the Northwest and a University of Washington alumna twice over, with a background in cell biology that was jettisoned for the excitement and nearly instant gratification of journalism.

Her first real media gig was at the Seattle Post-Intelligencer where for 10 years she primarily covered environmental issues. More recently Lisa worked as a freelancer for the Seattle Times covering the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Other recent endeavors include writing and editing for Seattle’s Child parenting magazine, research for Sightline Institute, and reporting for NPR, MSNBC, Smithsonian Magazine and local news websites.

Dr. Mike Dunne, Professor of Photon Science, Stanford University

Mike Dunne is an expert in the design, construction and operation of a wide range of large-scale research facilities and their associated science and technology programs.

He is the Director of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), an internationally leading research facility, operated by Stanford University on behalf of the US Department of Energy, open to users from around the world. He is an Associate Laboratory Director of the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, and a full Professor of Photon Science at Stanford University.

From 2010-2014, Mike was the Director for Laser Fusion Energy at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). His role was to ensure full advantage is taken of the National Ignition Facility (NIF), a $3.5 billion investment designed to demonstrate net fusion energy production. At LLNL, Mike also held the role of Program Director for high average power laser development, initiating a number of projects including the High Average power Petawatt Laser System (HAPLS), for the newly constructed ELI-Beamlines laser facility near Prague.

Dr. Matthew C. Levy, Founder and General Partner, AE Blue Capital

Matthew Chase Levy is founder and general partner of AE Blue Capital. He is the first American physicist to be named a Newton Fellow of The Royal Society, an institution which was given Royal Charter in 1662 by King Charles II. The Royal Society is “a fellowship of many of the world’s most eminent scientists and is the oldest scientific academy in continuous existence.” As a Newton Fellow, Matthew’s research involved devising new ways to harness the immensely strong electromagnetic fields comprising high power laser light to test aspects of the nonlinear quantum vacuum in the laboratory. As a Lawrence Scholar in the physics division of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Matthew created fusion theories, helping lay the foundation for today’s commercial laser fusion systems. He founded and led Noble Artificial Intelligence, a science start-up based in San Francisco. With his leadership, Noble flourished from idea to robust organization, assembling a Microsoft agreement and accepting significant investments from M12, Microsoft’s Venture Capital Fund, to Chevron Technology Ventures, Stanford’s endowment, and others. Matthew has invested in numerous startups including Brex, H2O.ai, and Rippling. An alumnus of Rice, UCLA, and Wolfson College, Oxford, England, Matthew brings scientific expertise, entrepreneurial capability, and deep-seated ancient values to advanced energy investing.

Shaun Walsh, Chief Marketing Officer, Peak Nano

Shaun is a senior marketing leader with extensive experience in cloud, security, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud infrastructure, high performance networking, software defined services, enterprise SaaS platforms and storage management.

Shaun is responsible for overseeing global marketing strategy and execution at Peak Nano, the leading provider of AI-driven materials science solutions for advanced optics and energy management. Peak’s solutions support a range of industries, including military, medical, EV, and power storage applications.

Dr. Christopher Keane, Senior Advisor to the Provost and Executive Vice President, Professor of Physics, Washington State University

Dr. Christopher Keane is Senior Advisor to the Provost at Washington State University (WSU) and Professor of Physics. From July 2014 to December 2023, he served as Vice President for Research at WSU and Vice Chancellor for Research of the WSU Pullman campus. He led WSU efforts to expand research and scholarship opportunities for WSU faculty and staff, bring WSU innovations to the marketplace, improve the University’s research infrastructure and operational performance, and enhance research funding. During his tenure WSU significantly expanded its large research awards and partnerships with other leading research institutions.

Prior to joining WSU in 2014, Dr. Keane performed a variety of scientific and leadership roles related to inertial confinement fusion (ICF) at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), ultimately serving as Director of the National Ignition Facility (NIF) User Office. Dr. Keane also served in the U.S. Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration as a member of the Senior Executive Service, where he led the U.S. ICF Program, including construction of the stadium-sized NIF laser and development of the NIF ignition program.

Dr. Keane holds B.S. degrees in Physics and Engineering from the University of Rochester, and a Ph.D. in astrophysics from Princeton University. He is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), and a member of the Washington State Academy of Sciences and the American Physical Society. He is the recipient of the NNSA Silver Medal, the Defense Programs Award of Excellence, and the Fusion Power Associates Special Award.

Kate Kelly, Chief of Staff, Avalanche Energy

Kate is Chief of Staff at Avalanche Energy: a Seattle-based, venture-backed fusion energy startup developing modular fusion microreactors. Prior to joining Avalanche, Kate worked in Product Management at DreamBox Learning and Microsoft. Kate is an Electrical Engineer by training, having previously worked in nuclear consulting and always dreamed of working on Climate Tech. 

Ryan Umstattd, VP of Product, Zap Energy

As the Vice President of Product for Zap Energy, Ryan is developing the go-to-market strategy for cost-effective fusion energy. After completing his PhD in Applied Science (Plasma Physics), Ryan served for 20 years in the Air Force as a scientist, professor, program manager, and technology acquisition officer.

Prior to transitioning to the private sector, he also served at the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Energy where he helped prepare breakthrough energy technologies for transition from the lab to customers within the Department of Defense. During his last year at ARPA-E, he was the Deputy Director for Commercialization, responsible for oversight of 11 tech-to-market advisors and the hands-on management provided to 300+ project teams for a $250M/yr research and development portfolio.

Jessie Barton, Director of Communications, Helion

Jessie Barton is the Director of Communications at Helion. She is a science communicator passionate about the merging of clean energy and innovative technology. In her role at Helion, she works with scientists and engineers to break down technical concepts to educate the public about Helion’s fusion technology.

In addition to her role at Helion, Jessie is a Board Member at the CleanTech Alliance and Technology Alliance and is an Advisor to Seattle’s Furniture Repair Bank. Jessie earned her BA in Communications Studies from Drury University and an MS in Communication from Purdue University.

Mike Donaldson, Senior Vice President, Technology Development, General Fusion

Mike Donaldson is a systems engineer with more than 25 years of experience in the development of novel and disruptive technologies. He has broad experience in product development, production engineering and engineering management. He has led multidisciplinary teams in high-risk and complicated technical projects with a focus on risk reduction through rapid prototyping and physical testing.

Prior to joining General Fusion in 2009, Mr. Donaldson had been with Kodak (Creo) since 1999, contributing to production engineering and product development roles.

Dr. Greg Van Dyk, CEO, Altrusion

Dr. Greg Van Dyk is the CEO of Altrusion, a fusion energy supply chain company located in Sedro-Woolley, WA. Prior to his role in Altrusion, Col (ret) Van Dyk’s Air Force career included conducting research to leading international efforts and large programs. His nuclear engineering PhD involved both computational and experimental fusion research and was followed by a tour at the Department of Energy (DOE) leading an office funding over $200 million in yearly research and development (R&D) at 3 national laboratories. Following his tour at DOE, Dr. Van Dyk led two Department of Defense (DoD) multi-billion-dollar Acquisition Category (ACAT) 1 programs, one in development and one transitioning into production. Following his program management positions, he was named as the Chief Scientist of the largest DoD acquisition program in development and led multiple R&D efforts across DoD and DOE. Dr. Van Dyk was then stationed in the United Kingdom leading joint research between the U.K. Ministry of Defence and the U.S. Air Force and served as DoD’s lead for fusion technologies engaging the U.K. and U.S. fusion energy and space propulsion communities.

Bibake Uppal, Head of Kyoto Fusioneering America

Bibake Uppal leads Kyoto Fusioneering America, driving commercial and R&D collaborations throughout the fusion energy supply chain. With a background in advising clients in the Energies, Resources & Industrials sector, he gained insight into the challenges of incremental change in traditional industries, which fueled his passion for enabling a new energy future. He believes fusion energy is pivotal to achieving energy superabundance and unlocking humanity’s full potential. Bibake holds an MBA and MSc. in Data Science from IE University and is deeply committed to building a sustainable future for the next generations.

Shaun Walsh, Chief Marketing Officer, Peak Nano

Shaun is a senior marketing leader with extensive experience in cloud, security, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud infrastructure, high performance networking, software defined services, enterprise SaaS platforms and storage management.

Shaun is responsible for overseeing global marketing strategy and execution at Peak Nano, the leading provider of AI-driven materials science solutions for advanced optics and energy management. Peak’s solutions support a range of industries, including military, medical, EV, and power storage applications.

Melvin Weatherly, Lead Health Physicist, Washington State Department of Health

Melvin is a Lead Health Physicist with the Washington State Department of Health, specializing in fusion and radiation therapy regulation. He has a MS in Applied Physics from the University of Washington. If you’re a Star Trek fan, you’re in good company, because it’s Melvin’s favorite!

Dr. Karl Mueller, Program Development Office Director Physical & Computational Sciences, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)

Karl Mueller is a physical chemist who currently serves as Program Development Office Director of the Physical and Computational Sciences Directorate, as well as Sector Manager for the DOE Office of Science, Basic Energy Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Geosciences and Biosciences. In these roles, he leads and advocates a science and technology vision that builds scientific reputation and provides technical integration to ensure regional, national, and international impact.

Dr. Mueller also is a Laboratory Fellow, focusing primarily on scientific research on the development and utilization of solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. His most recent studies are driven by outstanding and unresolved questions in materials and chemical sciences that require advanced characterization tools and multi-disciplinary/multi-modal approaches. Moreover, Dr. Mueller and his research team are studying the charge transport at dynamic interfaces in electrochemical systems as part of the Joint Center for Energy Storage Research, where he is Pacific Northwest National Laboratory’s lead principal investigator on the project.

Rachelle Ames, Vice President of Economic Development, CleanTech Alliance

Rachelle Ames leads the BUILT Cluster focusing on decarbonizing infrastructure and built environment and one of the initial clusters launched by the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program. She also leads the Alliance’s entrepreneur support programs and has developed the new Lab2Launch resource focusing on breaking down barriers between industry and the Northwest’s academic institution resources.

In addition to entrepreneur support and commercialization activities, she leads member and sponsors development and engagement, and partnership outreach for the Alliance. Rachelle joined the CleanTech Alliance in 2018, after five years at Washington State University working within the Office of Research and focused on industry-academia engagement and technology transfer.

She has a Professional Science Masters (PSM) in Molecular Biosciences from Washington State University and is passionate about helping scientists, engineers, technical founders, and industry communicate their technologies and innovations to others to increase collaboration opportunities through shared understanding.

Dr. Michael Ponting, Chief Scientific Officer, Peak Nano

Michael Ponting has spent 20+ years developing nanolayered polymer film technology and products toward commercial realization. He is Peak’s Chief Science Officer, and serves as a technical lead and primary investigator on several U.S. government and DoD funded multilayered materials technology development programs in optics, energy storage, packaging, and in broader applications for general micro- and nanolayered polymer systems. A Ph.D. graduate of the Case Western Reserve University Department of Chemical Engineering, Michael has more than 50 peer reviewed publications, and 12 patents / pending applications related to the production and structure property relationships of multilayered polymer film systems. His development efforts are focused on commercial translation of high value added micro- and nanolayered polymer technologies including nanolayered gradient refractive index optics, nanolayered dielectric energy storage films and coextrude non-woven nanofibrous materials for filtration applications. His most important role is balancing taxi driver, homework checker, and short order cook for his 11- and 13-year-old sons he shares with his wife Kimberly.  A lifelong Clevelander, you can find Mike in the summers downtown taking in a Guardians baseball game or travelling representing Cleveland gear in an airport or conference near you! 

Mike Heumann, Founder & Principal Analyst, Ignition Research

Mike Heumann is the lead analyst at Ignition Research, and has held executive positions and provided strategic consulting for global high-technology companies in the energy, electric vehicle, cybersecurity, and datacenter markets for over two decades. He has a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin, a Master of Science Degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and successfully completed the Stanford University/AEA Executive Institute Program. His experience in the energy and EV industry includes market sizing/forecasting, strategic positioning, product management and marketing, and merger and acquisition consulting for a number of leading companies and venture capital firms on a worldwide basis.

Mel Clark, President & CEO, CleanTech Alliance

Mel Clark is a leader with 20 years of nonprofit experience, as well as for-profit business experience in real estate and human resources.  She has a demonstrated track record of strong fiscal stewardship and program development.  She joined the CleanTech Alliance in April 2020.

She has two adult children, one in college studying computer science, the other a theatre lighting and pyro technician at Disney World.

She was born in Massachusetts, raised in Kansas, spent summers on the beach in Connecticut, and attended colleges in New York and Washington.  She is a life-long learner, and loves to read, travel, cook, bake, and garden, and enjoys hiking, yoga, swimming, diving, and tolerates running (long enough to finish a marathon in 2017). 

Jane Hotchkiss, President & Co-Founder, Energy for the Common Good

Jane Hotchkiss has spent 30 years working on climate solutions in energy, beginning in the late 80’s in CA working with former regulatory staff and with CEOs focused on building markets for the renewable industry. She became known for green energy in MA and CO, as the first renewables advocate at both the Conservation Law Foundation and the Land and Water Fund of the Rockies. In addition to her pro-renewable advocacy, policy, and regulatory work, Jane worked to highlight the fossil problem, developing a national field of anti-coal campaigns, as co-founder of the Clean Air Task Force (CATF). As a climate consultant to PG&E on the Madison Wind Project and their national energy team, she was the only external consultant to the first utility wind project in the East.

In the mid 2000s, Jane served as Managing Director of the solar company CEI, where she combined market incentives with a growing green municipal electric interest to secure JPMorgan financing and site control for a 30 MW project, only to face the municipal utilities’ preference for short term natural gas in 2012. Looking for a solution supportive of expanding renewable and climate energy solution markets brought Jane to the promise of fusion energy. The need for fusion’s potential steady state, safe, zero carbon energy supply had never been clearer. Its ability to balance renewable grids and disrupt fossil’s hold on electricity, meet industrial needs, and even produce transportation fuels is compelling. Fusion was the natural place to utilize her energy market experience and climate knowledge. With ECG she now dedicates her expertise to building a roadmap for fusion as a regulated, accepted, and welcomed green commercial choice.

Don Gregoire, Licensing Manager for New Nuclear Projects, Energy Northwest

Don comes with over 40 years in the nuclear fission industry having spent 19 years in the Operation of nuclear power generating stations as well as 23+ years in the Licensing of nuclear technology. As Licensing Manager for Energy Northwest’s new nuclear projects, which includes plans to construct and operate small modular reactor facilities in Eastern Washington, he will be sharing Energy Northwest’s experience in tribal communications related to these projects.

John Nixon, Vice President, Siemens Digital Industries Software (DISW), Siemens

John is the Energy, Chemicals and Infrastructure global strategy lead for Siemens DISW.​

John has worked in energy, chemicals and infrastructure for 30+ years. John has created multiple energy and technology start-ups leading global business development in China, Romania, Panama and the USA. John has also led large greenfield and brownfield projects with oil and mining supermajors in Canada and China, and spearheaded pipeline asset integrity programs in USA and Mexico. In addition to this, John holds patents for pipe lining technology and has been a board member for multiple technology firms and university R&D associations. John was an engineer officer in the US Army and is a graduate from Texas A&M University with a BS in Civil Engineering. ​

Bibake Uppal, Head of Kyoto Fusioneering America

Bibake Uppal leads Kyoto Fusioneering America, driving commercial and R&D collaborations throughout the fusion energy supply chain. With a background in advising clients in the Energies, Resources & Industrials sector, he gained insight into the challenges of incremental change in traditional industries, which fueled his passion for enabling a new energy future. He believes fusion energy is pivotal to achieving energy superabundance and unlocking humanity’s full potential. Bibake holds an MBA and MSc. in Data Science from IE University and is deeply committed to building a sustainable future for the next generations.

Dr. Jim McCarrick, High Energy Density (HED) and Photon Systems Program Director, Lawrence Livermore National Lab (LLNL)

Jim McCarrick is the Program Director for the High Energy Density (HED) and Photon Systems element within the NIF & Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate at Lawrence Livermore National Lab (LLNL). He oversees development and deployment of advanced short-pulse lasers and the experimental platforms and systems that leverage those lasers, with application to HED science and inertial fusion energy.

Jim has been at LLNL for 26 years and has worked in a variety of science and engineering areas that serve LLNL’s core mission of strategic deterrence. In recent years his focus has been bringing LLNL’s capabilities to adjacent national needs, primarily for the Department of Defense and Department of Energy. He holds a B.S. degree in Applied and Engineering Physics from Cornell University, and a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from MIT’s Plasma Science and Fusion Center, where he studied magnetic fusion

Dr. Amani Zalzali, Strategic Development Associate, General Atomics

Amani Zalzali is a strategic development associate at General Atomics in San Diego working on creating business partnerships in the fusion industry to develop a roadmap for enabling technologies that are necessary for commercializing fusion energy. Before this role, she worked on the design of an advanced tokamak for use in a demonstration fusion pilot plant. Amani obtained her PhD in computational plasma physics from the University of Warwick in 2022 and MPhil in mechanical engineering from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom in 2017. Dr. Zalzali is currently a board member of the Fusion Industry Taskforce in the UK, and a member of Women in Fusion (WiF).

Dr. Chemene Crawford, President, Everett Community College

Dr. Crawford has served over 30 years in higher education. Previously, she served as president and CEO of North Seattle College and associate vice chancellor for Dallas County Community College District (now Dallas College). She has also served as vice president of student services and enrollment management, vice president of administrative operations, dean of student affairs, and director of student financial services. She worked approximately 10 years in the California Community College system.

She authored a study of California’s chief executive officers and conducted research on the development of four-year degree programs at community colleges, which was the subject of her doctoral dissertation. 

Crawford has taught as a full-time faculty member for Western Governors University and as an adjunct faculty member for the University of North Texas at Dallas, University of Phoenix, Nevada State College, and College of Southern Nevada.

She earned a doctor of education degree in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University, a master’s in human resources and organization development and a bachelor’s of science in organizational behavior, both from University of San Francisco.

Dr. Jean Paul “JP” Allain, Director, Fusion Energy Sciences, Office of Fusion Energy Science, U.S. Department of Energy

Dr. Jean Paul Allain is the Associate Director of Science for Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) in the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science (SC). With an annual budget of more than $760M, Dr. Allain leads the FES with multiple areas including enabling and foundational burning plasma science including advanced tokamaks, theoretical and simulations, and long-pulse fusion plasmas.

In addition, FES supports research in fusion materials and nuclear science, discovery plasma science and plasma technology, high-energy density plasmas and inertial fusion energy. FES also supports the US participation in ITER and public-private partnerships. Prior to joining FES in July 2023, Dr. Allain was Professor and Head of the Department of Nuclear Engineering at Pennsylvania State University. He was associate head in the Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and associate professor at Purdue University.

Dr. Allain led the Radiation Surface Science and Engineering Laboratory (RSSEL) conducting research in plasma-material interactions and authored over 350 peer-reviewed and proceedings papers in experimental and computational modeling work in particle and plasma-surface interactions with high-temperature materials in nuclear fusion, plasma medicine and nanomaterials. 

Jay Inslee, Governor, State of Washington

Jay Inslee is a fifth-generation Washingtonian who has lived and worked on both sides of the state. He grew up in the Seattle area where his father, Frank, was a high school teacher and coach. His mother, Adele, worked as a sales clerk at Sears & Roebuck. Jay worked his way through college and graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in economics before earning his law degree at Willamette University. He and his wife, Trudi, then moved to Selah, a small town near Yakima where they raised their three sons. Jay worked as an attorney and prosecutor.

Jay and Trudi are now proud grandparents to six active little Inslees. Besides writing and illustrating books for his grandchildren and sketching scenes from around Washington, Jay is an avid cyclist and charter member of Hoopaholics, a youth basketball academy.

Jay first became involved in public service in 1985 when he and Trudi helped lead the effort to build a new public high school in Selah. Motivated to fight against proposed funding cuts for rural schools, Jay went on to represent the 14th Legislative District in the state House of Representatives. He was then elected to Congress in 1992. The Inslees later moved back to Kitsap County where Jay was elected to Congress in 1998, serving until 2012 when he was elected governor.

He is currently the longest serving governor in the United States.

Cassie Franklin, Mayor, City of Everett

Mayor Cassie Franklin took office on Jan. 1, 2018, becoming the first elected female mayor of the City of Everett, Washington.

As mayor, Franklin’s top priorities are violence prevention, behavioral health and creating a prosperous city. Her focus is to ensure the City’s ongoing financial wellbeing and the success of all of Everett’s businesses. Franklin is committed to open, transparent government, making sure the City’s workforce and volunteers are reflective of Everett’s diverse community, increasing public safety and finding appropriate and effective ways to respond to street-level issues and addiction.

Franklin has issued several mayoral directives to prioritize key areas including violent crime; housing for all; behavioral health; climate action; economic development; community engagement; the City’s structural budget deficit; and diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

Franklin is a local and regional leader. She founded and co-chairs the bi-partisan group, Mayors and Business leaders for Public Safety, serves on the Puget Sound Regional Council, the Economic Alliance Snohomish County Board of Trustees, the Executive Council of the Greater Seattle Partners and on the Sound Transit Board of Directors. She also launched a Mayor’s Drug Crisis Task Force. She is also a member of Mayors Against LGBTQ Discrimination and active with the Mayor’s Innovation Project.

Chris Ajemian, Consultant, Ajemian Consulting

Chris Ajemian is an independent consultant who works in fusion energy commercialization and energy policy. He was co-founder of CTFusion, a fusion energy startup that spun out of the University of Washington. He provides business development, legal, regulatory and environmental strategy.

Chris has 25 years of experience working with business, government, and non-profits. He has practiced corporate law, worked with the U.S. Departments of State and Energy, and worked in various clean energy ventures. He has built relationships with power utilities, venture funds, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, ARPAE, IAEA, and the environmental community. He founded and been a CEO for a software start-up, advised three U.S. presidential campaigns, and has been a journalist covering the White House and U.S. Congress.

His interests include leadership, fusion energy, corporate strategy, plasma physics, strategic planning, government, Asia, U.S. politics, foreign policy, and diplomacy. He works closely with the Cleantech Alliance of Washington and the Fusion Industry Association.

Rachelle Ames, Vice President of Economic Development, CleanTech Alliance

Rachelle Ames leads the BUILT Cluster focusing on decarbonizing infrastructure and built environment and one of the initial clusters launched by the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program. She also leads the Alliance’s entrepreneur support programs and has developed the new Lab2Launch resource focusing on breaking down barriers between industry and the Northwest’s academic institution resources.

In addition to entrepreneur support and commercialization activities, she leads member and sponsors development and engagement, and partnership outreach for the Alliance. Rachelle joined the CleanTech Alliance in 2018, after five years at Washington State University working within the Office of Research and focused on industry-academia engagement and technology transfer.

She has a Professional Science Masters (PSM) in Molecular Biosciences from Washington State University and is passionate about helping scientists, engineers, technical founders, and industry communicate their technologies and innovations to others to increase collaboration opportunities through shared understanding.

Aditi Kalle, Intern, Zap Energy

Aditi Kalle is an intern in the Materials, Manufacturing, and Qualification group. She is currently finishing her MS in Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD). Previously, she was a visiting scholar at the University of Illinois Urbana- Champaign (UIUC), where she was part of the Energy and Multiphase Flow Lab. 

At Zap Energy, Aditi is working on research involving Fusion System Prototypical Liquid Metal Blanket Materials, focusing on advancing fusion energy technology through evaluating thermo-physical properties and characterizing liquid lithium wicking in porous tungsten structures.

Ioana Dumitru, Associate Research Engineer, Zap Energy

Ioana joined Zap as an Associate Research Engineer in July 2024, where she leverages her interdisciplinary expertise to advance fusion as a commercially viable energy source. Prior to this, she conducted research on inertial confinement fusion (ICF) implosions at Los Alamos. Ioana has also helped develop various renewable energy projects, including solar, battery storage, fuel cells, hydroelectric plants, and microgrids.

She holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder, where she worked on projects such as Formula SAE, cardiac blood flow modeling, and wind energy development. Ioana is passionate about enhancing energy resiliency to combat climate change.

Noel Schulz, Inaugural Director, Institute for Northwest Energy Futures (INEF), Bob Ferguson Endowed Professor, Washington State University Tri-Cities

Noel N. Schulz is the Bob Ferguson Endowed Professor at the Washington State University Tri-Cities. In August of 2023, she was named the Inaugural Director of WSU’s new Institute for Northwest Energy Futures (INEF), headquartered on the WSU Tri-Cities campus. Dr. Schulz has been active for over 30 years in teaching, research and service at six U.S. universities. In research and graduate studies related to electric power engineering research, she has graduated 45 MS and 16 PhD students; published 175 papers and 2 book chapters; and brought in over $40M in external research through individual and collaborative projects including a U.S. National Science Foundation CAREER award. She is a Fellow of IEEE and the American Society for Engineering Education and a member of the Washington Academy of Sciences. Dr. Schulz spent 12 years on the IEEE Power & Engineering Society (PES) Governing Board including two years, 2012 and 2013, as PES President.

Monica Brummer, Director, Pacific Northwest Center of Excellence for Clean Energy

With a background in higher education, marketing and communications, Monica serves as a partner with CleanTech Alliance as Career Connect Washington’s Clean Energy/Clean Technology Industry Intermediary. We connect utilities, labor and related businesses to Washington’s education system. Collaborating with all stakeholders to share news, trends and gaps, so that together, we’re able to build a better workforce to support our state’s progressive clean energy initiatives and emerging technologies.

The Center of Excellence is one of 12 Centers throughout the state that support the industry sectors that drive Washington’s economy. Monica serves on several committees including the Lewis County Energy Innovation Coalition, Capital STEM Executive Steering Committee, the Foundation for Water and Energy Education, National Renewable Energy Lab’s Energy Executives, Pacific Northwest Hydrogen Advisory Committee and the Hydrogen Academia Working Group.

Alyssa Jackson, Director, Snohomish STEM Network, and Co-director, Career Connect Washington NW Region

With over 12 years of experience in education and labor with a passion for career-connected learning, Alyssa is dedicated to bridging the gap between education and business sectors. Her expertise involves fostering collaborative partnerships to create equitable opportunities for students, preparing them for success in high-demand industries. Holding a Master of Science in Information Technology & Administrative Management degree, Alyssa is dedicated to supporting career-connected learning through education and future workforce development.

Dr. Bobbi Makani, Executive Director of the Career Center, San Jose State University

Dr. Bobbi Makani leads the Career Center at San Jose State University, where her team partners with employers, organizations and campus departments to help students and alumni realize their professional goals. A faculty member at the Lucas College of Business and Undergraduate Studies program, she also possesses expertise in crafting workforce development programs that bridge academia and industry. Formerly the Chair of the Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Department at the University of Silicon Valley, Bobbi’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her ventures spanning food, retail, health, project management, and nonprofits across Asia and the United States. Bobbi holds two Ph.D.s, one in Electronic Computing & Digital Online Learning, and another in Management Operations. Her research interests include career education and readiness, operations research, entrepreneurship, innovation, project-based learning, experiential learning, academic technology, and assessment of learning outcomes.

Andy Freeberg, Head of Communications, Zap Energy

Andy Freeberg is the Head of Communications at Zap Energy, leading the company’s efforts to engage and educate key audiences about Zap’s work to unlock the transformative potential of fusion energy. He comes to Zap with a long track record of science and technology communications, including at the University of Washington, the Pacific Marine Energy Center, the DOE’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory at Stanford University, and NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. Before that, he earned an MFA in Science and Natural History Filmmaking from MSU-Bozeman and a BS in Radio/Television/Film and Environmental Science from Northwestern University.

Kyra Jorgensen, Communications & Outreach Specialist, Helion

Kyra Jorgensen is the Communications & Outreach Specialist at Helion, where she champions the connection between communities and clean technology. Before Helion, Kyra played a pivotal role in shaping the brand and media strategies of Gravitics, a leader in commercial space station manufacturing, and Virgin Galactic, a pioneering organization in suborbital human spaceflight, contributing to their inaugural astronaut experience team.

Diane Kamionka, Executive Director, Northwest Innovation Resource Center

After a career as executive in the corporate arena, Diane entered the entrepreneurial start-up world where she founded a software company and took it public on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Since moving to Washington State in 2004 from Cincinnati, she has focused solely on helping to establish the resources required to support a strong entrepreneurial segment of our economy. In addition to working directly with entrepreneurs, she was instrumental in founding the Northwest Agriculture Business Center, which assists value-add growers and producers in building a profitable business model.
In 2010 she helped found the NW Innovation Resource Center (NWIRC) which assists early stage innovative entrepreneurs in northwest Washington. In early 2019, they established the first of a network of innovation centers, IRC Lab @Everett, which is being followed by centers in Arlington, Sedro Woolley and Bellingham. These centers provide resources to support the integration of digital technologies in the major industry sectors of northwest Washington.
This year NWIRC is leading their fourth annual CleanTech/BlueTech Innovation Cohort to assist early stage entrepreneurs develop their ideas for clean tech and maritime sustainability.

Dr. Greg Van Dyk, CEO, Altrusion

Dr. Greg Van Dyk is the CEO of Altrusion, a fusion energy supply chain company located in Sedro-Woolley, WA. Prior to his role in Altrusion, Col (ret) Van Dyk’s Air Force career included conducting research to leading international efforts and large programs. His nuclear engineering PhD involved both computational and experimental fusion research and was followed by a tour at the Department of Energy (DOE) leading an office funding over $200 million in yearly research and development (R&D) at 3 national laboratories. Following his tour at DOE, Dr. Van Dyk led two Department of Defense (DoD) multi-billion-dollar Acquisition Category (ACAT) 1 programs, one in development and one transitioning into production. Following his program management positions, he was named as the Chief Scientist of the largest DoD acquisition program in development and led multiple R&D efforts across DoD and DOE. Dr. Van Dyk was then stationed in the United Kingdom leading joint research between the U.K. Ministry of Defence and the U.S. Air Force and served as DoD’s lead for fusion technologies engaging the U.K. and U.S. fusion energy and space propulsion communities.

Radi Simeonova, Managing Director, Washington State Department of Commerce

Radi Simeonova leads business development for the Washington State Department of Commerce, focusing on attracting foreign investors and promoting the state internationally through a network of consultants and strategic partnerships. With over 15 years of experience in international business development, including growing global sales at a clean tech manufacturing startup, she brings a broad expertise in fostering cross-border investments and expanding market reach.

Carli Smith, Fusion Researcher, Kyoto Fusioneering

Carli Smith is a Fusion Researcher at Kyoto Fusioneering America with a background in fusion materials and physics, providing a broad range of expertise to help tackle technological challenges. She obtained her MS from Penn State University, where she became an advocate for energy policy, participating in the first inaugural Fusion Student Delegation. Understanding that the industry is multi-faceted, throughout her career she aims to use both her technical and non-technical backgrounds to help propel the industry forward. 

Laura Ruderman, CEO, Technology Alliance

Laura Ruderman most recently served as the Interim PAC Director for the Children’s Campaign Fund. Prior to that, she represented the 45th district in the State House of Representatives, where she served as the Vice Chair of the Technology, Telecommunications, and Energy Committee and was elected as the Vice Chair of her party’s caucus. She also held a variety of positions at Microsoft and has been a fundraising professional for a wide range of non-profit organizations. She has served on the boards of organizations ranging from the King County Library System Foundation to Ventures, a Seattle-based nonprofit that empowers aspiring entrepreneurs.

Senator Joe Nguyễn, Senator for Washington’s 34th Legislative District, Washington State Legislature

Born and raised in the 34^th Legislative District, Sen. Joe Nguyễn has deep roots in the community. His experiences and his involvement with community makes him an ardent champion for investing in Washington families and residents, expanding economic opportunities, and marks him a bold leader in our fight against the climate crisis.

Joe is the Chair of the Environment, Energy & Technology Committee. He is also serves on the Ways & Means Committee, Human Services Committee, and is the Senate Democratic Assistant Floor Leader. Elected to the state Senate in 2019, he has spent his tenure advocating for working families and community members who historically have been left out of the political process. His priorities mirror the committees he serves on.

Joe has been a thoughtful and innovative leader in his efforts to mitigate the climate crisis. He knows only too well how marginalized communities experience environmental harm disproportionately, and that to ensure that our communities thrive as a whole, we need to act urgently. His sponsored legislation has increased availability of zero emissions vehicles and expanded the Clean Buildings Act.

Rep. Stephanie Barnard, Representative for Washington’s 8th District, Washington State Legislature

Stephanie Barnard was elected to the Washington State House of Representatives in 2022. She represents the 8th Legislative District, which encompasses portions of Benton and Franklin counties.

Stephanie’s legislative priorities are laser-focused on improving her region’s economy, strengthening businesses, and creating more family-wage jobs. She serves as the assistant ranking member of the Innovation, Community, and Economic Development and Veterans Committee, and she also holds positions on the Finance Committee and the Environment and Energy Committee.

A small business advocate, Stephanie served as the head of government affairs for the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce for more than four years. Well-known for her outreach efforts, including building support on key public policy issues, Stephanie has also led several government-related projects through the Tri-Cities Legislative Council and Local Government Affairs Committee.

An active community volunteer, Stephanie previously served on the Board of Directors for the local Boy Scouts of America and founded and operated a non-profit organization that provided car seats and training to low-income parents.

Born and raised in Washington, Stephanie lives in Pasco and has six children.

Rep. Clyde Shavers, Representative for Washington’s 10th District, Washington State Legislature

Clyde Shavers is a State Representative in the Washington State Legislature representing the 10^th Legislative District, which includes all of Island County and portions of Skagit and Snohomish County. He is Vice Chair of the House Education Committee. Rep. Shavers also serves on the Capital Budget Committee and the Innovation, Community and Economic Development, and Veterans Committee.

Before becoming a legislator, Clyde served our nation as a member of the United States Navy for 8 years with tours including U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet in the Middle East and Destroyer Squadron 7 in Southeast Asia. He is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy. Following his service, Rep. Shavers graduated from Yale Law School, where he established the student group Yale Coalition to End Homelessness and studied environmental law with the Natural Resources Defense Council.

His local public service activities include volunteering and serving on the boards of Skagit Friendship House, a faith-based organization that serves Mount Vernon’s homeless and working poor, and South Whidbey’s Goosefoot which works to build affordable housing.